Pul-e-Khumri(SW):Taliban have attacked Barka district in Baghlan and it is said that intense fighting between security forces and the Taliban was underway in this district since Friday.
Abdul Jabar Pordeli, Baghlan Police Chief, said that after the Taliban and its ally Jundullah group were defeated by the security forces in Kunduz, they have fled to this district in Baghlan.
He further said that the fighting continued as a result which 13 Taliban militants have been killed and 3 security forces personnel got wounded.
Ferozuddin Aymaq, Deputy for Baghlan Provincial Council, warned that if reinforcement for the security forces was not sent to the district, Taliban would soon overrun it.
Taliban have yet to comment about the fighting.
Tens of militants killed in Logar
Local officials in Logar province said that more than 110 Taliban militants have been killed in this province.
Saleem Saleh, Spokesman for Logar Governor, said that during mop-up operation, which started a week ago in Kharwar district, heavy casualties have been inflicted upon the militants.
He said six Taliban commanders were also included among those killed. He further said that if such operation continued, Kharwar district would be fully cleared of the insurgents.
“Some parts of the district have been in Taliban’s control for the past 14 years, which were threatening other provinces like Paktia and Maidan Wardak as well.” He said.
Hasibullah Stanekzai, Head of Logar Provincial Council, called the operation as a positive development. He asked the security forces to remain in the districts for ensuring the peace even after the mop-up operation.
Zabiullah Mujahed, Taliban’s spokesman, however said that only 5 Taliban were killed as a result of the operation. He rejected the government’s claims for killing tens of Taliban members.
ENDS
